Getting to the Root of Bad Breath

Posted by: Dr. Sirakian Categories: Oral Health

We eat an onion bagel and automatically need to pop a piece of sugar-free gum, but when we really stop and think about it, what exactly causes bad breath? When talking stats, one in four people in the United States suffer from bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis. The number one cause of this is lack of proper dental care but there are also certain diseases and foods that cause that smelly sensation in your mouth.

To rid yourself of bad breath there are a couple of options for you. You can start cleaning your tongue for starters! This practice is common in Asia, and is recently catching on in the States. Brushing your tongue gets rid of dead cells that can promote bacterial growth.

You should also try eating less meat and more vegetables, like your mother always told you! Of course, stay away from things like garlic and onions, but did you know that cheese, juices, and sodas could also be causing your bad breath? After a meal, popping a piece of gum is a-okay to help clear away food particles and stave off bad smells.

Bad breath can also be linked to such things as dry mouth. When the mouth becomes extremely dry, dead cells aren’t washed away, leading to a build up that can further inhibit saliva. Other chronic diseases like, kidney or liver failure, diabetes, and lung infections can also be linked to causing halitosis. If you smoke, tobacco is a definite cause of bad breath and bad oral health.

If your bad breath is a problem you can’t deal with on your own, that’s what your dentist is for! Talk to them about ways to fix the problem at the root cause!

http://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/oral-conditions/beating-bad-breath.aspx

Tooth Decay May Prohibit Growth in Children

As children grow, it’s only natural that we, as parents, go to great lengths to ensure they become healthy and happy adults. Recent studies have shown that tooth decay may affect the way children grow up. These studies found that tooth decay actually inhibits growth in children. Because of these findings, it is important for […]

Low Vitamin D Could Cause Cavities in Babies

Research done by a team at the University of Manitoba found that “low levels of vitamin D in pregnancy are associated with the development of cavities in babies.” These findings were based upon a survey of 134 expectant mothers. The study took blood samples from each expectant mother to measure vitamin D levels. Then they […]

Osteoporosis and Oral Health

Having osteoporosis can affect more than just your bones. The treatment for osteoporosis as well as the disease itself can harm your oral health. If you suffer from osteoporosis, then it is important to let your doctor know about any medications that you may take. Many osteoporosis medicines called antiresorptive agents strive to strengthen bones, […]

Are Cavities Contagious?

While this may come as a surprise, cavities are contagious. That’s right, just like catching a cold in the wintertime, you can also catch a cavity. Although sugar is usually to blame for cavities and tooth decay, studies have shown that cavities can be transmitted. This is because bacteria are the culprit in wearing away […]

Burning Mouth Syndrome: What You Need to Know

Have you ever experienced a burning pain in your mouth for multiple days, months, or maybe even longer? If you have, you may be experiencing Burning Mouth Syndrome, here is what you need to know. While any abnormality in your mouth requires a trip to the doctor, burning in your mouth is a clear sign […]